More than 100 blood drives were canceled in the storm

TRENTON — With more than 100 blood drives canceled by this week's snowstorm, the American Red Cross is in need of blood donations to make up for the lost donations.

“The need for blood does not get a snow day. For those in storm affected areas, please come out to donate when travel is safe. For those in unaffected areas, please help restock the blood shelves for patients now." Penn Jersey Blood Services Region spokeswoman Alana Mauger said in a statement.

The storm resulted in 4.500 blood and platelet donations being missed on Tuesday in the eastern United States, according to the Red Cross. All blood types are needed.

The Penn-New Jersey Region has donation centers in Fairfield, Pennsauken, Princeton and Pleasantville. Blood drives in New Jersey can be found on the Red Cross website.

Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

The Empire State Building was lit up with two red hearts on Wednesday night to commemorate March as Red Cross Month, which honors the volunteers who assist fire victims and those in need at all hours of the day and night.

“Every day I’m inspired by the many New Jersey heroes who help their neighbors when they need it most,” Ana Montero, CEO, American Red Cross New Jersey Region said. “We are grateful for their tremendous support.”

Contact reporter Dan Alexander at Dan.Alexander@townsquaremedia.com.

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